Wild mammals
Pied tamarin twins mark conservation hope at UK zoo
A rare breeding success for critically endangered primates highlights the dedication of a small zoo’s conservation efforts in Devon.
Reported by BBC News · · 1 min read
A small zoo in Devon has welcomed critically endangered pied tamarins as twin babies, marking a significant milestone for conservation efforts.
The Shaldon Wildlife Trust reported the birth of the two infants on 29 September to parents Bobby and Pedra. The species is classified as critically endangered by the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Zak Showell, the trust’s director, described the achievement as 'unbelievably proud,' noting that only two European zoos have successfully bred pied tamarins this year. Breeding them is particularly challenging due to their delicate nature.
The twins are thriving and have already begun exploring their habitat by riding on their parents’ backs, a behavior typical of young tamarins. Staff kept the news quiet for weeks to ensure the family’s peace and quiet.
Pied tamarins are found only in a small, shrinking rainforest region near Manaus, Brazil, where their habitat continues to shrink. The trust emphasizes that these primates require stress-free environments and specialized care to survive.
Showell highlighted that while the zoo has had an exceptional year with multiple births, these twins hold special significance. Their success underscores the importance of zoos in supporting endangered species, even in limited settings.
